I have doubt about what's really the best combination for a good high performance big block engine. I've looked and read and get all sorts of ideas, but I'm stuck in planning stages still wondering what's for me. I built a 350cid a couple years ago and she's pretty tricked out, but you know how HP is... always gotta have more! I was thinking about a 540 for some time before I ran into an article in Chevy High Performance Magazine on 7 hot engine combos (8 in fact). One that I was obviously most interested in was an UltraStreet 540ci RAT that peaked at 690TQ and 785HP! :eek: Here's a more in depth link:
http://www.chevyhiperformance.com/techarticles/148_0308_combo/index8.html

Check out the specs and see what you think. I'm still planning so I'm trying to get all the insight I can. Yes it's my project and I can do whatever I desire because a man's hotrod is individual and personal :cool: , but as far as matching up parts that work well together and also quality is a big issue when spending this much money on an engine. I could build 3 or 4 small blocks for the sum I'll be putting into this project. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks for taking a peak! graemlins/thumbsup.gif

Kick @ss bro, what kind of block are you going to use? I wanted to stroke my rat, but saved it for the next buidup :D graemlins/thumbsup.gif

The best combination for a 540cid project I would have to say it would be a fat wallet and an understanding wife. graemlins/thumbsup.gif

Understanding wife is key! Luckly, she's already in the shop getting dirty by the time I'm home for work! ;) I'm thinking about the Merlin III block if I go with a mechanical fuel pump, but if I go electric I'll probably go with the stock GM 502 block and bore some meat out of her. smile.gif